DS2 Blog

DS2 Powerline technology enabling connectivity in Spanish schools

Last year the Spanish government approved a new plan to provide computers to all students in Spanish primary schools. However as computers are shipped into the classroom, the regional governments in charge of the actual implementation are facing a challenge in creating the necessary network infrastructure.

The government of the Spanish southern region of Andalucía has found a solution to this problem in DS2 powerline technology. The Spanish company EKOPLC has been selected to enable connectivity in 500 schools in this region.

Powerline technology has great advantages compared to the other potential networking solutions. It is easy to install and supports 100% coverage through the high dynamic range and built-in automatic repeating mechanisms.  WiFi has big limitations in coverage, especially in older buildings with thick walls. Cabling the buildings is of course always an option, but it is very expensive, requiring a large initial investment and installation work is disruptive for classes and normal school business.

EKOPLC has developed a complete system and methodology for professional installations of Smart Building powerline communication networks, and are implementing this system in a great variety of scenarios worldwide. Any building or structure that needs a communication infrastructure can benefit from the low cost and simple installation of a PLC network and all without having to lay a single new cable. Some of the scenarios where EKOPLC and others have used the technology are:

·              Hotels

·              Offices

·              Schools and Universities

·              Hospitals

·              Public buildings

·              Casinos

·              Ships

More information about the DS2 solution for Smart Buildings is available here. More information about EKOPLC is available here.

CeBIT 2010: Two new DS2-based home networking products from Billion

Billion will launch two DS2-based Powerline models at CeBIT Hannover 2010. The   BiPAC 2093 R2 (Pocket-sized 200Mbps PLC Ethernet Wall Plug) and BiPAC 2094 R2 (200Mbps PLC Ethernet Wall Plug with Noise-filtering Power Outlet) provide instant connectivity in the home and are great for connecting different devices such as modems, routers, PCs, set-top-boxes, IP Cameras, and game consoles using existing power cables. Using DS2's unique smart routing and repeating functions these products offer Smart Route to find the best transmission path and Smart Repeater to extend the connection for 100% coverage in larger homes and buildings. The BiPAC 2093 R2 and the BiPAC 2094 R2 include Smart Power Saving technology  that reduces power consumption when the units are not in use. Both products will be available early in the second quarter of the year.

Billion anticipates compatibility between these new products and future G.hn -based products. DS2 has demonstrated compatibility of its current UPA-based Powerline technology with its new G.hn prototypes. 

Using TR-069 to manage powerline ethernet adapters in IPTV home networks

This is the first of a series of posts about how to use TR-069 to manage DS2 powerline networks.

TR-069 is a suite of standard protocols created by the DSL Forum (now Broadband Forum) to manage end-user devices in broadband networks, such as DSL routers, IPTV Set-Top-Boxes or VoIP adapters. With TR-069, service providers can remotely control powerline devices and perform management tasks.

Using Microsoft Windows LLTD with DS2 powerline networks

One of the nice features of DS2's AITANA powerline chipset is that its embedded microprocessor provides an excellent platform to develop network protocols.

Typical examples that our customers use are HTTP, SNMP or TR-069 (for remote management) or TFTP/FTP (for downloading configuration settings or new firmware upgrades). System designers can run these protocols in the AITANA chipset itself, instead of requiring an external processor (which would increase cost, space and power consumption).

Last year, DS2 announced that we had ported another network protocol, Microsoft's Link Layer Topology Discovery (LLTD), to our AITANA platform.

What is LLTD and why is it important?

D-Link's Green DHP-303 reviewed at CNET

D-Link's DHP-303 powerline adapter, which is powered by DS2's AITANA powerline chipset, got a very positive review at CNET this week:

D-Link recently released its next-generation PowerLine HD Network Starter Kit the DHP-303, which comes with a green twist. The kit includes two adapters that are equipped with D-Link Green Technology. This allows them to detect data transmissions to automatically power down when idle.

PowerLine adapters generally use very little energy and this kit is the first I've seen that's designed to even further reduce the power usage.

The review also focuses on some the most innovative features of the DHP-303: automatic push-button security, support for Windows Vista Network Map using LLTD, etc.

Request more information on DS2's power-efficient products for "Green" Home Networking applications

D-Link video explaining push-button security

D-Link has recently published a nice video showing how to install their latest Aitana-based DHP-303 Powerline Networking Kit, with push-button security, power saving mode (D-Link Green Technology) and support for Windows Vista "Network Map".

Securing the SmartGrid using DS2 powerline technology

SmartGrid technology allows utilities to efficiently manage their electricity distribution network, and provides consumers with real-time control of any power-consuming device in their homes.
While some early approaches to SmartGrid applications was based on non-standard communication technology, there is a trend to move to "all-IP" SmartGrid architectures. IP-based networks are easier to manage, easier to extend for new applications and provides more flexibility to utilities and consumers when choosing from multiple vendors.